Continuing concerns about the Polish government’s interference in the rule of law have emerged in a new study by the International Bar Association.

In a follow-up to its 2007 report Justice under Siege, the association commended efforts by the new government since last year’s election, but said further action is essential ‘to restore the rule of law’. The earlier report accused the former government of ‘embarking on a campaign to gain control over the entire justice system’.

In its latest paper, the association called on the government to repeal measures granting the minister of justice power to supervise legal professional bodies. Another concern is a measure that would introduce a new category of ‘licensed lawyer’, who would be answerable to the justice ministry.

The report also calls for the repeal of powers that could be used to put pressure on judges with whom the government disagrees. These include the power to second judges to a different court for up to six months against their will.